Gerard V. Brown

November 12, 1941 - December 6, 2018

Gerard (Jerry) Brown was born November 12, 1941 in Brooklyn, New York to the late Randolph and Mary Brown. He was the oldest of three children. He spent his early childhood in the Coney Island area with his beloved grandmother, the late Janie Jackson (who was the wind beneath his wings.) Grandma Jackson introduced him to the Lord at a very early age, and she demanded his presence in Beulah Church of Christ as long as he was under her guidance. Gerard was educated in the New York City public school system. After completion of his education, he entered the United States Marine Corps. and was honorably discharged in the year of 1959. After his discharge he returned to his hometown Coney Island, the very familiar place where he had grown up. Gerard was not satisfied with the status quo and realized he had the desire for entrepreneurship. Hence he began reaching for the stars. He was determined to further his education and graduated from Community College of New York. He was a Carpenter by trade, but after several jobs he grew less content with being employed by others. Gerard was determined to have his own business. His first business endeavor was *Sally*s Record Rama* and later *Bucks Bar and Grill*, both here in Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York. He later relocated to Hickory, North Carolina and eventually opened his own used car dealership. While in Hickory he re-established a relationship with God, and attended the *Temple of Refuge Apostolic Holiness Church*, under the leadership of Pastor Linda Tyler. Gerard was a giver, he was an avid reader of meaningful books and education. He also had a witty sense of humor. He loved Cadillac cars, playing his guitar, and more importantly he loved taking chances. We dare not forget his love for his dog (Blu). Gerard is predeceased by his father and mother Randolph and Mary Brown, two brothers; Darryl Brown and Randy Brown; his loving grandmother, Janie Jackson. He leaves to cherish in his loving memory four daughters: Jerri Brown, Linda Cherry (John), Cassandra Johnson (Arthur), Stephanie Batson (Andre), one sister in law Jeanette Brown; two nieces, Kisha and Cassandra: and two nephews Roger and Kareem. Six grandchildren Marcell, Jordan, Shanija, Jaquin, Aujalik, and Carlton; eight great grandchildren and five great great grandchildren. His beloved companion, Shirley Ann Brown Lyde, his long time friend Roscoe Means and a host of loving relatives and friends. Sorrowfully submitted, The Family